Ashley Barnes struck a stunning equaliser yesterday as Burnley staged a remarkable comeback to snatch a 2-2 draw against stunned champions Manchester City.

City had looked set to cut Chelsea’s lead at the top of the Premier League to one point as David Silva and Fernandinho scored in a commanding first-half display.

But the battling Clarets responded after the break, controversially pulling one back through George Boyd before Barnes lashed home a brilliant leveller nine minutes from time.

Burnley’s fightback denied manager Manuel Pellegrini and City a club record 10th successive win and was a real bonus in their fight against relegation.

City could complain that Boyd looked offside when scoring in the 47th minute but the visitors’ greater energy and determination after the break arguably deserved tangible reward.

City will view it as points dropped given that Chelsea also drew — but they had apparently rested key midfielder Yaya Toure and again started without a recognised striker.

The home side host Sunderland on New Year’s Day.